DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. — Despite a game-high five saves from junior Mateo Sanchez (Anderson, S.C./Converse University), the Mercy University Men's Soccer Team dropped a 3-0 decision to regionally-ranked Adelphi University on Wednesday afternoon at Mercy Field.

The Mavericks (1-2) have dropped two games in a row, while the Panthers (1-0-1) pick up their first win of the season.

Adelphi took control early, scoring all three goals in the first half while maintaining a strong defensive front. The Mavericks managed six shots with five on goal but were unable to break through Adelphi's defense. Adelphi's goalkeepers recorded a shutout with five saves, securing the win.

The first half commenced with Adelphi taking the lead in the 14th minute, as Matthew Murphy scored with an assist from Sam Nolan. The Mavericks' defense, led by Sanchez, managed two significant saves, including a critical stop against Alessio Consoli's shot in the 25th minute. Despite these efforts, Adelphi extended their lead with goals from Gonzalo Gil in the 27th minute and Stephen Betz just before halftime, resulting in a 3-0 deficit for the Mavericks at the break.

The second half began with a flurry of activity and intensity, as the Mavericks' defense was tested early on. Sanchez made a key save in the 48th minute to deny Murphy's attempt. Despite facing a barrage of fouls, the Mavericks remained resilient, with sophomore Marcos Landivar (Buenos Aires, Argentina/St. Thomas University) and senior Santiago Serrano (Bogota, Colombia/Rogers State University) each making notable shot attempts on goal, only to be thwarted by Adelphi's goalkeeper. The half ended scoreless, with Adelphi maintaining their 3-0 lead from the first half.

Sanchez recorded five saves in goal, facing 18 shots throughout the match. Senior Matteo Azambuja (Paris, France/Eastern New Mexico University) contributed two shots, with one on target. Serrano managed one shot, which was on goal.

Murphy was pivotal for Adelphi, contributing one goal and one assist, while also leading the team with four shots, including two on goal. His performance included the game-winning goal. Gil added to the scoreline with a goal from his only shot, effectively converting it into a point. Nolan contributed with an assist and managed a shot on goal, showcasing his playmaking abilities. In goal, Andrea Farinella and Santiago Arango combined for five saves to secure a clean sheet, playing a key role in maintaining the team's defensive strength.

Adelphi held a 18-6 edge in shots, an 8-5 edge in shots on goal and an 8-3 edge in corner kicks.

Looking ahead, Mercy will host the University of Bridgeport on September 13, with the match set to begin at noon in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.